Abstract

Aim: To review the titles, roles and scope of practice of Advanced Practice Nurses internationally.-----
Background: There is a worldwide shortage of nurses but there is also an increased demand for
nurses with enhanced skills who can manage a more diverse, complex and acutely ill patient
population than ever before. As a result, a variety of nurses in advanced practice positions
has evolved around the world. The differences in nomenclature have led to confusion over the
roles, scope of practice and professional boundaries of nurses in an international context.-----
Method: CINAHL, Medline, and the Cochrane database of Systematic Reviews were searched
from 1987 to 2008. Information was also obtained through government health and professional
organisation websites. All information in the literature regarding current and past status, and
nomenclature of advanced practice nursing was considered relevant.-----
Findings: There are many names for Advanced Practice Nurses, and although many of these
roles are similar in their function, they can often have different titles.-----
Conclusion: Advanced Practice Nurses are critical for the future, provide cost-effective care
and are highly regarded by patients/clients. They will be a constant and permanent feature of
future health care provision. However, clarification regarding their classification and regulation
is necessary in some countries.

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